The thought of a move into aged care can be daunting. Understandably so – you’re leaving everything you know and entering an unfamiliar environment that’s likely to be very different to what you’re used to. But with good preparation, it doesn’t have to be as much of a change as you may fear – and may actually turn out to be a very positive experience. Use these helpful strategies to make the transition to aged care much easier.
Prepare early
The best way to get used to the thought of anything, is to prepare early – and that’s no different for aged care. in fact, failing to plan your aged care move can result in a whole lot of unnecessary stress when a crisis or medical emergency happens, leaving you completely unprepared for such a life change. It happens far too often – a sudden accident or health crisis makes the move to aged care unavoidable – but you haven’t got a plan in place. You’re then faced with making big, life-changing decisions when you’re feeling unwell, anxious, stressed and under time pressure. Worse still, your children have to make those decisions for you if you’re unable to, leaving you with very little control over what happens to you.
It’s far better to start thinking and planning your aged care future before you reach this stage, and before you need to. This gives you time to research, plan and make the choices that suit you best, and will leave you feeling much more in control and with greater peace of mind.
Bring bits of home with you
To ease the transition to a new home, start by bringing small pieces and mementoes of your old home with you. Make your new surroundings feel far more familiar and homey with your own furniture, pictures for the walls, ornaments and knick knacks and whatever precious objects you desire to make the décor of your new room reflect your old home. You might even be able to bring your favourite pot plants, or take cuttings from a valued plant in your garden to transport to your new home. All these things will give an immediate sense of personality and familiarity that can be very comforting when you’re making a big move, and will relieve the stressful feeling that everything is changing. It’s not – some things will inevitably have to change, but definitely not all.
Remember you have choices
One of the uncomfortable fears many people have about aged care is that all their freedom and choice will be taken away from them, and they’ll be left following someone else’s routine and rules. That couldn’t be further from the truth. While some routine is necessary in an aged care facility, you’re really free to spend your time as you wish. You can still participate in your hobbies, visit with friends and family members, and do what you please when you please (as long as you’re safe).
Get involved in social activities
One of the best things about aged care is all the entertainment and leisure activities that aged care homes have on offer. You’ll find plenty to get involved with, which will give you new interests to focus on, help you make new friends, and you may even discover some brand-new hobbies that you love! These activities are designed to help you enjoy your new life, and all aged care homes offer a range of facilities, services and events to get involved with. Keep in mind though, that you’re free to participate as much or as little as you wish. If something’s not your cup of tea, you don’t have to be involved – you still retain your power of choice.
Keep up your normal activities as well
It’s also a good idea to keep to your usual schedule of hobbies or activities, as much as possible. Continue to attend clubs or social events you previously went to, and keep up with your favourite hobbies. You might even be able to introduce some of your passions to likeminded residents in your new home. Watch the TV shows you used to watch, and stay to your familiar routines as much as you can, while also allowing space and time for new activities and interests.
See family and friends
You’ll be able to settle in better if you keep on seeing your family and friends just as you normally would. They can visit you at the facility, or you can visit them or go out for outings with them. Nothing needs to change just because you’ve changed where you live. Visits with family and friends will help add stability and comfort to your life, and are hugely important when settling in to a new place.
See your usual health care professionals
You’re still free to use the services of your usual doctor, dentist, physio, specialist etc., even if your new aged care home has an onsite medical provider. You’ve usually built up a good relationship with your health care providers over the years, so it makes sense to stick to them. Staff at the aged care facility can help you make appointments and arrange transport there if necessary.
Always remember, staff are there to support you and make your transition easier, so let them know how you’re feeling and if there’s anything you need. It may take a bit of time to adjust to your new surroundings, but these strategies will definitely help, and you’ll probably be feeling at home sooner than you might have believed.
Click here to read more about overcoming the fear of moving into aged care.
